Pick A Location

Pick A Location

Your business location is an essential component in your business' eventual success or failure. Depending on your industry or business type, picking a business location is one of the most important decisions when starting or relocating a business. In fact, studies conducted by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and other organizations indicate that poor location is one of the primary causes of business failure in America.

Business owners should perform precise planning, due diligence, and research on the location of their business. Your site selection should actively ensure business success, while also being cost effective. Here are some things to consider.

Zoning & Land Use

Before you can finalizing your business location, you should check with the City of San Pablo Development Services Department to see if your location is zoned for the type of business you wish to operate. Deviating from the existing zoning laws and land uses will require additional planning review before you can open your business. Contact a planner in the City of San Pablo's Development Services Department in order to receive assistance or get professional advice.

Your Business Needs

Ask yourself what your business needs are. Before you can even start looking at sites, you need to thoroughly evaluate the critical needs that your business location should have. How does this location help with visibility? Can you find talented workers from the area? How much direct and indirect competition is nearby? The SBA provides a basic framework of factors to consider:

Brand Image – Is the location consistent with the image you want to maintain?

Competition – Are the businesses around you complementary or competing?

Local Labor Market – Does the area have potential employees? What will their commute be like?

Plan for Future Growth – If you anticipate further growth, look for a building that has extra space should you need it.

Proximity to Suppliers – They need to be able to find you easily as well.

Safety – Consider the crime rate. Will employees feel safe alone in the building or walking to their vehicles?

Zoning Regulations– These determine whether you can conduct your type of business in certain properties or locations. You can find out how property is zoned by contacting your local planning agency.

Cost and Budget

Your business plan should help you get an idea of what you can afford. In addition to your lease amount, utilities, and common area maintenance fees, there are other costs that you should consider:

Hidden Costs – Very few spaces are business ready. Include costs like renovation, decorating, IT system upgrades, and so on.

Taxes – What are the income and sales tax rates for your state? What about property taxes? Could you pay less in taxes by locating your business across a nearby state line?

Minimum Wage – While the federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour, many states have a higher minimum. View the Department of Labor’s list of minimum wage rates by state.

Government Economic Incentives – Your business location can determine whether you qualify for government economic business programs, such as state-specific small business loans and other financial incentives.

Site Selection Search Tool

You can search for properties for lease or sale on LoopNet, one of the leading providers of commercial property listings. Additionally, we have close relationships with local brokers and property owners. If you have a good idea of the size and necessary amenities you need for your business, come and talk to us.

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